Prada's Kolhapuri Chappal Controversy: Bombay HC Dismisses PIL

Mumbai, July 16 (PTI): The Bombay High Court on Wednesday dismissed a public interest litigation (PIL) filed against Italian fashion brand Prada for allegedly using designs unauthorizedly resembling the traditional Kolhapuri chappals.

The bench, consisting of Chief Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice Sandeep Marne, expressed skepticism about the "locus" and legal standing of the five advocates who initiated the PIL. The judges highlighted that the petitioners were neither the aggrieved parties nor the registered proprietors or owners of the Kolhapuri footwear.

"You are not the owner of this Kolhapuri chappal. What is your locus and what is the public interest? Any person aggrieved can file a suit. What is the public interest in this," the court questioned.

The PIL asserted that the Kolhapuri chappals are granted protection under the Geographical Indication (GI) tag as per the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act.

The bench further indicated that legal action should be taken by the registered proprietor of the GI tag if they wish to challenge any unauthorized use.

Consequently, the court rejected the plea, noting that a formal detailed order would be released subsequently.

The controversy stemmed from Prada's spring/summer collection which showcased ‘toe-ring sandals’ claimed by the petitioners to bear a striking resemblance to Kolhapuri chappals. These sandals are retailed at a price of Rs 1 lakh per pair.

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